The Tyco Scorcher 6x6 is a radio controlled vehicle manufactured by Taiyo (Japan) and released into the US, UK, and other markets worldwide in 1993.
One of several designs that resulted from the Tyco (American) influence in Taiyo's 90s vehicle designs, the Scorcher was one of the most successful of those cars. So successful it can be very difficult to find a 'clean' and undamaged Scorcher these days, even with so many sold, because kids just played and played with them until they fell apart.
Features and Performance
Sold as the Taiyo Cyclone 6x6 in Japan, the Scorcher has only 1 gear but plenty of aggressive acceleration and enough torque to run over/through anything that gets in its way.
- 9.6v Turbo battery pack
- Powered by Twin Mabuchi RS370 motors
- 6×4 (6 wheels, 4 driven)
- Large rubber tires as used in the Lamborghini
- Available in Red 27Mhz, and Black 49Mhz (40Mhz UK)
Packaging
Released in 1992 when Tyco RC were at their A-Game in terms packaging design and artwork, the Scorcher box just screams excitement all over. How could any kid look at this thing and not devote the next several weeks of their life to nagging mum and dad for a Scorcher for their Birthday / Christmas.
Even looking at it now in the 2020s I'm not sure anybody has topped Tyco's 90s R/C box designs.
Availability and Collectability
Buyers should be aware that there are several models of Scorcher, some 9.6V Turbo like this one, and other variants such as the 1997 Scorcher 6.0V Jet Turbo which provides less performance. These are obviously smaller in person, but when buying online it's difficult to scale objects accurately. European models changed the name to Scorcher 4x6 to be clearer, but in general you can't rely on seeing 6x6 and assuming its a Turbo model, you must look out for the 9.6V Turbo written along the top.
Whichever one you do buy, both are excellent toys that I can recommend, however just be sure what you're purchasing so you can pay the right price, with Turbo models obviously being more expensive and much harder to find in good condition.
As for whether they are collectable, this one seems like a no-brainer for me. Tyco Scorcher is in high demand, especially ones in decent condition.
